Principles of Backflow Prevention

Zurn Wilkins Backflow Preventers

 The Health and
Liability Risks of
Contaminated
Drinking Water
Clean drinking water is something that
many of us around the world take for
granted. Public water supplies in the
United States are generally safe and
clean, but when water is contaminated,
it could be deadly. From 2011 to 2012,
according to the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, in the US
alone there were 32 drinking water-
associated outbreaks reported, which
caused at least 431 cases of illness, 102
hospitalizations, and 14 deaths1. The
US Environmental Protection Agency
estimates that only a small percentage
of total backflow incidents are actually
reported2. Contaminants infect municipal
water when pipes are improperly
installed or when a hose is connected
to a non-potable water source. The
American Backflow Prevention
Association estimates more than
100,000 incidents happen every day in
the United States3. Not every incident
results in illness, but every incident
poses a threat.
2
The majority of contaminated water illnesses
and deaths can be prevented if issues or
deficiencies within building plumbing systems
and ground water systems are corrected1.
Understanding the backflow prevention
terminology is the key to knowing which
backflow assembly is appropriate for a given
installation. Backflow prevention assemblies
are life safety products. If the wrong assembly is
specified, the end result can be disastrous.
What Is Backflow?
Backflow is the undesirable reversal of the flow of a possible source
of contamination (water or mixture of water and other liquids, gases,
or other substances) into the potable water system.
When Does Backflow Occur?
Backflow is caused by pressure changes, including conditions of
gravity, vacuum, or other pressure changes. There are two factors that
contribute to reversal of flow in pipelines. One is backsiphonage and the
other is backpressure.
Backsiphonage conditions exist when there is a negative or sub-
atmospheric pressure in the supply piping, allowing downstream
substances to be siphoned into the potable water supply. Under-sized
pipes, pipeline breaks, and high withdrawal rates can create vacuums,
which contribute to the occurrence of backsiphonage.
Backpressure conditions exist when a pressure higher than the supply
is created in the downstream piping, allowing downstream substances
to be pushed into the potable water supply. Backpressure can occur
when higher pressures downstream are generated by pumps, thermal
expansion, and elevation.
What is a Cross-Connection?
A cross-connection is any physical or potential connection, whether
permanent or not, between the public potable water system and a
possible source of contamination such as non-potable water, industrial
fluid, gas, or other substances.
Some examples of cross-connections are fire sprinkler and irrigation
systems, or hard pipe connections to equipment that uses water, such
as beverage machines and dialysis equipment. Other cross-connections
can be temporary, such as jumper connections, removable sections,
swivel or change-over devices. An example of potential cross-
connection is a hose laying next to a swimming pool — while the hose
does not yet create a cross-connection, if the hose end were to be
submerged into the pool, it would create a real cross-connection.
If cross-connections are not properly protected, a backflow incident
could contaminate a drinking water system.
With modern drinking water systems, cross-connections are a necessity
in a pressure piping system, and cannot be eliminated, therefore a
means of protecting drinking water systems from contamination is
essential. Zurn provides industry leading backflow prevention products
for all applications.
Assemblies vs. Devices
Mechanical backflow prevention devices and assemblies offer the best
protection against cross-connection hazards.
Selecting a
Backflow prevention assemblies include an inlet and outlet shut-off
valve and test cocks to facilitate testing of the assembly while it is in its
Backflow Preventer
functional in-line position
Backflow prevention devices prevent backflow by stopping the reversal
of flow, and are not testable once installed because they do not have
Zurn provides numerous types of backflow
inlet and outlet shut-off valves or test cocks preventers to meet industry standards, which
are set to provide the right level of protection
Containment and Isolation
An effective cross-connection control program will include requirements depending on system conditions.
for both premise containment (meter or service protection) and
isolation (internal protection).
Service protection is installed on a water connection at the point where What type of backflow preventer should be used?
the water purveyor transfers control of the water to the consumer’s Backflow prevention devices and assemblies include:
water system.
• Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers
Internal protection is installed in the consumer’s potable water system
at the point of use of the water. • Dual Check Valves

• Pressure Vacuum Breakers

Standards, Approvals, and Listings
Approval agencies, representing many diverse geographical areas and • Double Check Valve Assemblies
levels of government, have established performance criteria regarding
• Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Assemblies
the function, manufacturing, installation, testing and maintenance of
backflow prevention devices and assemblies. The proper selection of a backflow preventer is crucial to ensure that
it works properly and provides adequate protection for the specific
The overall objective of the performance criteria is to establish a
application. Not all backflow preventers provide the same level of
baseline to ensure the sanctity of drinking water; however, each
protection and the following must be taken into consideration when
standard specifies different requirements relating to mechanical
defining the proper product for an application.
function, material requirements and testing for backflow preventers.

System Characteristics
Each backflow preventer is designed to handle a specific group of
system characteristics. System characteristics include the hydraulic
requirements of the specific backflow prevention design, such as:
Backpressure versus backsiphonage
Continuous pressure versus non-continuous pressure

• Non-continuous pressure cannot be applied for more than 12 hours

continuously during a 24 hour time period
Existing conditions of pressure loss

• Pressure loss within a plumbing system occurs from pipe, fittings,

and valves
350 Double Check Valve Assembly installed to protect against
backsiphonage and backpressure in low hazard applications • Backflow preventers, which utilize check valves, contribute
to pressure loss

• Flow curves provide pressure loss data on backflow preventers

Elevation in the piping system

• The weight of water in a column contributes approximately 1 psi for

every 28 inches of column height, so the pressure at the bottom of
the column is greater than the pressure at the top

• A 10 story building can lose almost 35 psi in water pressure from the
ground floor to the top floor

3
 Degree Of Hazard
Should a backflow condition occur, the degree of hazard must be
understood in order to provide the proper backflow preventer. The
degree of hazard is the primary factor when determining the proper
product.
Low hazard application: potential backflow can pollute the
drinking water
• Pollution is defined as materials that can cause undesirable effects
to the water, such as discoloration, smell or taste, but will not cause
sickness or death
High hazard application: potential backflow can contaminate the
water supply
• Contamination is defined as any impairment to the water quality such
that contact with this water can result in illness or death
A lethal hazard involves radioactive material or raw sewage. An air gap
is the only effective means of protecting against lethal hazards. Under
no circumstance would a mechanical backflow preventer be used to
protect against a lethal hazard.
Type of Application
The type of application and industry, such as fire protection, irrigation,
waterworks, and plumbing, each have particular requirements. Fire
sprinkler systems may require detector assemblies, and irrigation
systems may require products that are not used universally in plumbing
systems.
Each application is also unique in regards to flow require-
ments. Plumbing and waterworks require consistent flow of water.
Irrigation requires flow perhaps 2% of the time and the remaining 98%
of the time is in a static condition. Fire protection must stand ready for
action with 100% static water pressure. Each application can present a
unique situation, which will affect a backflow preventer differently.
375XL Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies installed
in a commercial shopping center
4
Type of Installation
Installation types include outdoor, indoor, below grade
(pit installations), horizontal, and vertical installations.
Facilities that require uninterrupted supply of water, such as hospitals,
resort hotels, or industrial applications, will require multiple connections
or manifold assemblies.
• Outdoor installations face the potential of vandalism, theft, soil
erosion, and freezing temperatures. Protective enclosures can help
to mitigate some of these issues.
• Indoor installations might need to address the issue of water
discharge. Of the five standard types of backflow preventers, three
spill water, two at start-up and one as a normal function.
• Below grade installations can be convenient, but are limited to
certain types of backflow preventers. Care must be taken to provide
accessibility for testing and maintenance.
• Horizontal installations are the most common.
• Vertical installations are limited to certain types of backflow
preventers. Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventers
may not be suitable for vertical installations. Understanding the
direction of flow (flow-up or flow-down) is important from an
approval standpoint.
Accessibility is required for testing, maintenance or repair, yet is often
overlooked. Height requirements are defined by industry standards.
Testable Backflow Prevention Assemblies
vs. Non-Testable Backflow Devices
The local authority having jurisdiction will ultimately determine whether
a testable backflow prevention assembly or non-testable backflow
device is used.
Typically, testable backflow prevention assemblies are required
for use at a service connection, but may also be used for internal
protection. Since their proper function is imperative in order to prevent
contamination of the public potable water supply, a method of testing is
necessary.
Non-testable backflow devices are usually used for internal protection,
within the consumer’s potable system. If these types of valves fail,
protection of the public potable supply is still facilitated by the testable
assembly installed at the service connection.
Lead-Free Law Compliance
On January 4, 2014, changes to the Safe Drinking Water Act went
into effect which mandate that all commercial plumbing fixtures,
valves, pipes, and fittings that are directly intended for human water
consumption are required to be manufactured with less than .25%
leaded brass content.
Exceptions exist for product used in non-potable applications such
as fire protection and irrigation. For more information on the
Safe Drinking Water Act and lead-free initiative, please visit
zurn.com/innovation-efficiency/lead-free.
Determining Which Type
of Backflow Preventer to Use
Selection Guide for All Zurn Wilkins Backflow Assemblies

APPLICATION
MODEL TYPE CONTINUOUS EXAMPLES OF INSTALLATION
BACKSIPHONAGE BACKPRESSURE LOW HAZARD HIGH HAZARD
PRESSURE

375XL/375
375AST/375A/375
475 Irrigation, Plumbing,
975 Reduced Pressure Waterworks,
Principle Industrial, Medical,
975XL Fire Sprinkler
975XLV
975XLSE

975BMS/MS Reduced Pressure Indoor applications where

975XLBMS/MS Principle with Integral undetected discharge
FCIS Monitor Switch could cause water damage

375ASTDA/375DA Fire Sprinkler System

Reduced Pressure
375ASTDA/375ADA Supply Main. Detects Leaks
Principle
475DA and Unauthorized
Detector Assembly
975DA Use of Water

350XL/350
350AST/350A/350
450 Irrigation, Plumbing,
Double Check Waterworks,
Assembly Industrial, Medical,
950XL Fire Sprinkler
950XLT
950XLV

350ASTDA/350DA Fire Sprinkler, System

350ADA Double Check Supply Main. Detects Leaks
450DA Detector Assembly and Unauthorized
950XLTDA(BF) Use of Water

700XL
Residential Supply Lines
700XLFP Dual Check
and Fire Sprinkler Systems
705

Boiler Feed Lines,

Dual Check with
760 Laboratory
Atmospheric Vent
Equipment, Residential

In-Line Spring-Loaded
40XL2 Irrigation, Pump and Water
Check Valve
Hammer Applications
310 Single Check

Fire Sprinkler System

Single Check Detector Supply Main. Detects Leaks
310DA
Assembly and Unauthorized
Use of Water

420XL
Pressure Vacuum Irrigation and Lawn
460XL
Breaker Sprinkler Systems
720A

Laboratory Sinks,
Atmospheric Vacuum
35XL Lawn Sprinklers,
Breaker
Commercial Laundry

BFP-8F Hose Connection Hose Bibbs, Service

BFP-9 Vacuum Breaker Sinks, Hydrants

5
 Types of Backflow Preventers
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) TYPICAL INSTALLATION
MODEL 35XL
An AVB is a device containing a float-check, a check seat, and TESTING
an air inlet port. The flow of water into the body causes the float
to rise and close the air inlet port. When the flow of water stops, This device is not testable once
the float falls and forms a check valve against backsiphonage installed.
and, at the same time, opens the air inlet port to allow air to SUPPLY 6" MIN. ABOVE
enter and satisfy the vacuum. A shut-off valve immediately HEIGHT REQUIREMENT VALVE
HIGHEST OUTLET

upstream may be an integral component of the assembly.

Installed 6" above the highest point
in the water system downstream.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS 35XL
SPRINKLER
Non-continuous pressure application (no more than 12 hours
of pressure per 24 hour period)
Backsiphonage condition only
Provides protection in low and high hazard situations
DIRECTION OF FLOW

35XL INSTALLATION

Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) TYPICAL INSTALLATION

MODEL 720A
A PVB is an assembly containing an independently acting, HEIGHT REQUIREMENT
internally loaded check valve with an independently acting
loaded air inlet valve, located on the discharge side of the check Installed 12" above the highest point in the water 12" MIN. ABOVE
system downstream with adequate clearance for testing HIGHEST OUTLET
valve. A PVB shall have two resilient-seated isolation valves
attached at each end of the assembly and two properly located and maintenance.
resilient seated test cocks.

SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
Continuous and non-continuous pressure applications DIRECTION OF FLOW

Backsiphonage condition only 720A OUTDOOR INSTALLATION

Provides protection in low and high hazard situations

TESTING
1 The air inlet valve shall open when the pressure in the body
12" MIN. ABOVE
is no less than 1.0 psi above atmospheric pressure. And, the HIGHEST PIPING
air-opening valve shall be fully open when the water drains
720A
from the body.
2 The check valve shall be drip tight in the normal direction of
flow when the inlet pressure is 1 psi and the outlet pressure
DIRECTION OF FLOW
is atmospheric.
720A INDOOR INSTALLATION

Spill Resistant Vacuum Dual Check Valve and Dual Check

Breaker (SVB) with Atmospheric Port
A SVB is the same as a Pressure Vacuum Breaker except that the Dual Checks are designed for use in low hazard applications where a fully approved, testable
Spill Resistant Vacuum Breaker is less prone to discharge upon backflow preventer is not required. Check with the local authority having jurisdiction for acceptance.
fill, and is recommended for indoor installations.
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
During start-up and operation, a separate diaphragm seals
the air inlet from the water supply preventing spillage. The
assembly is designed for use under constant pressure and
460XL provides protection where a potential health hazard exists. WATER METER
MODEL 700XL
700XL

DIRECTION OF FLOW

700XL INDOOR INSTALLATION

6
Double Check Valve Assembly (DC)
A DC is an assembly containing two independently acting approved check valves, four resilient-seated test cocks, and two resilient-
seated isolation valves.

SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Continuous and non-continuous pressure applications
Backsiphonage and backpressure conditions
Provides protection in low hazard situations
TESTING
1 The No. 1 check valve shall be tight against reverse flow
under all pressure differentials. The static differential
pressure across the No. 1 check valve must be at least 1 psid.
2 The No. 2 check valve shall be tight against reverse flow
under all pressure differentials. The static differential
pressure across the No. 2 check valve must be at least 1 psid.
Installed between 12"-30" above the floor or finished grade with
adequate clearance for testing and maintenance. If installation is
in a pit or vault, provide ample drainage to ensure the backflow 350XL
preventer does not become submerged.
Side clearance requirement from the wall of Double Check and
Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies (1/2"-3") are 24" from
side test cocks, 12" from top mounted test cocks, with 24" access
from one side. For sizes 4" and above, these requirements are
doubled. The weight of the checks must also be considered,
especially if you are looking at a vertical installation. The
check assembly weight for an 8"-10" device may require
lifting assistance. 350AST

TYPICAL INSTALLATION
OPTIONAL LEAD-FREE STRAINER PROTECTIVE
(MODEL SXL) ENCLOSURE
95
0X
W

LT
IL
KIN

2
D
C
17 80˚F

S
5
1

PS
I
W
IL XL
KIN
S

12" MIN. 95
0X
30" MAX. 1
W
IL
KIN D
C
LT
2
18 75 S
0˚F PS
I

DIRECTION OF FLOW
DIRECTION OF FLOW DIRECTION OF FLOW

950XLT OUTDOOR INSTALLATION 950XLT PIT INSTALLATION

12" MIN.
PROTECTIVE 30" MAX.
ENCLOSURE
ZURN WILKINS MODEL 350ASTBG
INDOOR VERTICAL INSTALLATION

350ASTBG INDOOR INSTALLATION

DIRECTION OF FLOW

OUTDOOR INSTALLATION

350XL OUTDOOR INSTALLATION

Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA)

A DCDA is a specially designed assembly composed of a line-
sized approved double check valve assembly, with a specific
by-pass water meter, and a meter-sized approved double check
valve assembly. The meter shall register accurately for all flows
up to and including two gpm.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
Continuous and non-continuous pressure applications
Backsiphonage and backpressure condition
Provides protection in low hazard situations only
TESTING
1 The static differential pressure across the No. 1 check valve
must be at least 1 psid.
2 The static differential pressure across the No. 2 check valve
must be at least 1 psid.
HEIGHT REQUIREMENT
Installed between 12"-30" above the floor or finished grade with
adequate clearance for testing and maintenance. If installation is
in a pit or vault, provide ample drainage to ensure the backflow 350ASTDABF
preventer does not become submerged.
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
Side clearance requirement from the wall of Double Check and
Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies (1/2"-3") are 24" from
side test cocks, 12" from top mounted test cocks, with 24" access
from one side. For sizes 4" and above, these requirements are
doubled. The weight of the checks must also be considered,
especially if you are looking at a vertical installation. The
check assembly weight for an 8"-10" device may require
lifting assistance.

350ASTDAOSY OUTDOOR INSTALLATION

7
 Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RP)
A RP is an assembly containing two independently acting
approved check valves together with a hydraulically operated,
mechanically independent differential pressure relief valve
located between the two check valves.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
2 The No. 2 check valve shall be tight against reverse flow under
all pressure differentials.
3 The static pressure drop across check valve No. 1 shall be
greater than the relief valve opening point (test no. 1), and at
least 5.0 psid.
375XL

Continuous and non-continuous pressure applications HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Backsiphonage and backpressure conditions
Provides protection in low and high hazard situations
TESTING
1 The pressure differential relief valve must operate to maintain
the “zone” between the two check valves at least 2 psi less
than the supply pressure.
Installed between 12"-30" above the floor or finished grade with
adequate clearance for testing and maintenance.
Side clearance requirement from the wall of Double Check and
Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies (1/2"-3") are 24" from side
test cocks, 12" from top mounted test cocks, with 24" access from
one side. For sizes 4" and above, these requirements are doubled.
The weight of the checks must also be considered, especially
if you are looking at a vertical installation. The check assembly
weight for an 8"-10" device may require lifting assistance. 375AST

TYPICAL INSTALLATION
MODEL 375XLAG (1 1/4” - 2”)

PROTECTIVE
ENCLOSURE

12" MIN.
30" MAX.

12” MIN.
30” MAX.

FLOOR
DRAIN

DIRECTION OF FLOW DIRECTION OF FLOW

ZURN WILKINS MODEL 375AST
OUTDOOR HORIZONTAL INSTALLATION
375ASTOSY OUTDOOR INSTALLATION INDOOR
375XL INSTALLATION
INDOOR INSTALLATION

Reduced Pressure
Principle Detector Assembly (RPDA)
A RPDA is a specially designed assembly composed of a line-
sized approved reduced pressure principle backflow assembly,
with a specific by-pass water meter and a meter-sized approved
reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly. The
meter shall register accurately for all flows up to and including
two gpm. The meter shall show a registration for all flows above
two gpm.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
Continuous and non-continuous pressure installations
Backsiphonage and backpressure conditions
Provides protection in low and high hazard situations
TESTING
1 The pressure differential relief valve must operate to maintain
the “zone” between the two check valves at least 2 psi less
than the supply pressure.
2 The No. 2 check valve shall be tight against reverse flow under
all pressure differentials.
3 The static pressure drop across check valve No. 1 shall be
greater than the relief valve opening point (test no. 1), and at
least 5.0 psid.
375ASTDABG
HEIGHT REQUIREMENT TYPICAL INSTALLATION
Installed between 12"-30" above the floor or finished grade with PROTECTIVE
ENCLOSURE
adequate clearance for testing and maintenance.
Side clearance requirement from the wall of Double Check and
Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies (1/2"-3") are 24" from side
test cocks, 12" from top mounted test cocks, with 24" access from
one side. For sizes 4" and above, these requirements are doubled.
The weight of the checks must also be considered, especially
if you are looking at a vertical installation. The check assembly
weight for an 8"-10" device may require lifting assistance.
12” MIN.
30” MAX.

DIRECTION OF FLOW

ZURN WILKINS MODEL 375ASTDA

375ASTDA OUTDOOR INSTALLATION
OUTDOOR HORIZONTAL INSTALLATION

8
Operating Principles of the Zurn Wilkins
Model 975XL Reduced Pressure
Principal Backflow Preventer

Static (No Flow) Condition Backpressure with 2nd Check Fouled

Both check valves are closed in a static (no flow) condition. Pressure on the supply side of the valve Potentially contaminated liquid will flow into the reduced pressure zone of the valve. As the zone
is approximately 8 psi higher than the pressure in the reduced pressure zone, therefore the relief pressure increases to within 2 psi of the inlet pressure, the relief valve begins to open and discharges
valve is held in a closed position. to the atmosphere.

Normal Flow Backsiphonage with 2nd Check Fouled

Both check valves are open in a normal flow condition. The relief valve is held in a closed position The inlet pressure becomes negative or subatmospheric. Because the pressure on the supply
because of the higher pressure on the supply side of the valve. Pressure in the reduced pressure side is lower than the zone pressure, the relief valve goes to a full open position and discharges
zone is approximately 8 psi lower than the supply side of the valve. to the atmosphere.

KEY:
W Inlet pressure
95
0X
L
IL D T2
17 KI C
N
18 5 S
0˚ PS
F I
Zone pressure

Outlet pressure

Atmospheric pressure

DIRECTION OF FLOW
Static Condition with 1st Check Fouled
Fluid will leak from the inlet into the reduced pressure zone. As the zone pressure increases to
within 2 psi of the inlet pressure, the relief valve begins to open and discharges to the atmosphere.
The amount of fluid discharging from the relief valve is proportional to the extent of the foul across
the 1st check.

9
 Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly
Troubleshooting Guide
Below is a simple troubleshooting method that does not require a test kit to identify the root causes
for relief valve discharge.

After observing water discharge from relief valve port:

1 Close #2 shut off valve.
If discharge stops, the problem is a fouled second check while under backpressure.
2 If discharge continues, open #4 test cock.
If discharge stops or is reduced, the problem is a fouled first check.
3 If discharge continues, the problem is most likely in the relief valve.

Solution
Disassemble and clean affected components and remove debris from the backflow preventer.
If you are still experiencing issues after completing these initial troubleshooting steps,
contact our OneZurn Customer Care department for further assistance.

REFERENCES
1
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (August 14, 2015). Surveillance for Waterborne Disease Outbreaks Associated with Drinking Water — United States, 2011–2012 (64(31);842-848).
Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6431a2.htm
2
Environmental Protection Agency (September 27, 2001). Potential Contamination Due to Cross-Connections and Backflow and the Associated Health Risks. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/
sites/production/files/2015-09/documents/2007_05_18_disinfection_tcr_issuepaper_tcr_crossconnection-backflow.pdf
3
ABPA cited in: A.M. Petrillo, ‘Backflow Basics’, Reeves Journal. March 2006. pp.50-2.

10
How to Read Performance Curves
The flow characteristics of a backflow preventer is defined by a “Performance Curve,” depicting the relationship of pressure drop and flow rate
throughout its full range of operation. The full range of operation is referred to as the “usable range.” Flow rates beyond the usable range will have
velocities destructive to the piping system or excessive pressure loss. The basis for flow capacity and pressure loss in a backflow prevention assembly
begins at zero gpm and goes up to the industry standard, American Water Works Association (AWWA) required maximum flow capacity. This
maximum rate is known as “rated flow.” For any flow rate from zero gpm up to the rated flow, there is an established maximum allowable pressure loss.
Failure to meet the required flow rates or exceeding the maximum pressure drop at any point up to the rated flow would prevent the assembly from
being approved.
All Zurn Wilkins Backflow Prevention Assembly performance curves are constructed with the “flow rate” in gallons per minute (gpm) or liters per
second (l/s) on the horizontal axis and the “pressure loss” in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascals (kpa) on the vertical axis. Additionally,
a diamond will be placed on the curve to indicate the maximum rated flow for each given assembly, according to its pipe size.

Example
Find the pressure loss exhibited by a 4" 350A Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly while the valve is flowing at 400 gpm
(see chart below).

Solution
Follow the horizontal axis out to 400 gpm. Next, move upward until the 400 gpm axis intersects the 4" 350A curve. At this juncture, moving to the
left, read the pressure loss from the vertical axis that corresponds with the intersection of the 400 gpm axis and the 4" 350A curve. The pressure loss
at 400 gpm is taken to be 3.5 psi. Also, from the curve, we see that the diamond is at the value of 500 gpm. Therefore, the maximum rated flow of
a 4" Zurn Wilkins 350A is 500 gpm.
Note: To properly interpret the following Zurn Wilkins backflow performance curves, the flow rates on the top are indicated in “liters per second”
and the bottom flow rates are in “gallons per minute.”

EXAMPLE FLOW CURVES

MODEL 350A 2 1/2", 3" & 4" (STANDARD & METRIC)

FLOW RATES (l/s)
0.0 12.6 25.2 37.9 50.5
15 104
PRESSURE LOSS (PSIG)

PRESSURE LOSS (kpa)

10 69

5 35

0 0
0 200 400 600 800
FLOW RATES (gpm)

MODEL 350A 6", 8" & 10" (STANDARD & METRIC)

FLOW RATES (l/s)
0.0 63.1 126.2 189.3 252.4
15 104
PRESSURE LOSS (PSIG)

PRESSURE LOSS (kpa)

10 69

5 35

0 0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000
FLOW RATES (gpm)

11
Zurn Engineered Water Solutions® is a recognized leader in commercial, municipal, and
industrial markets, delivering sustainable building solutions for new construction and
retrofit applications. At Zurn we are committed to providing smart solutions that save
both time and money. Our goal is serving the customer through innovation, continuous
improvement, and assurance behind every installation. Choose Zurn for a reliable,
recognized manufacturer to supply your entire installation, from behind the wall rough-
in, to finish trim product and fixture systems.

Zurn Wilkins
1747 Commerce Way
Paso Robles, CA 93446, 855-663-9876
In Canada
Zurn Industries Limited
7900 Goreway Drive, Unit 10
Brampton, Ontario L6T 5W6, 905-405-8272

Form No. ZMKTG480-27, Rev. 11/16